Calaguas Island, Camarines Norte

Travel Date: April 24-25, 2010 | Last Updated: August 18, 2016

Mahabang Buhangin Beach is located in Calaguas Island in Camarines Norte. It is said to be beautiful as Boracay Island when it's not yet commercialized. I've been to Boracay three times already and I can say now that I still prefer to go back to Mahabang Buhangin instead of the White Beach in Boracay Island.

The first time I went to Boracay I didn't like it and then I thought I should go back, give it another chance but I still don't like it. Then I went back again to make sure that my feelings will be the same, and it is and will ever be. Many people will disagree with me because Boracay is really perfect, white beach, lots of activities, bars, restaurant and partying.

But forgive me, it's how I feel and I don't like partying anyway. I go to the beach to relax and not be stressed by a lot people and many locals offering their services or activities. I don't feel like I'm in the Philippines when I go to Boracay, it feels like I'm in Korea! If you've been there,  you'll know what I mean.

Mahabang Buhangin Beach is my lost paradise! Well, not lost anymore because I already found it :) Long stretch of powder-like white sand, mountains, less people and no vendors or masseuse asking you every minute if you want to buy or a massage. Not to mention no network so your boss or your colleagues will be able to ask you about work. To make it more perfect, don't wear a watch, you don't it because you should not care about the time.

The beach has a long stretch of fine white sand like a powder and crystal clear blue water perfect for swimming.  You can only see dry leaves or dry seaweeds along the shore, no garbage.  I hope people who visit this place keep it that way. Sunset here is said to be very inspiring and I never wondered why!  This is the place where you can really be lazy. You can just sit there, stare at the sunset and think of nothing.  You don't have to worry about anything.

The last time we went there in 2010, the island is still untouched; no commercial establishments, hotels, electricity and mobile network.  There's only a couple of cottages that protect us from the sun and we brought our own tent to cover us at night, although you won't need it if you want to gaze at the stars. There's only one concrete house that serves as the kitchen, toilets and kitchen for tourists' use.

Our trip was organized by a travel agency, it's not actually our original trip. We bought a trip package to Sagada, but due to some safety issues it was cancelled and we were offered this trip instead. Before the trip I have never known this island and I didn't expect much. But I'm really glad that we accepted the offer as I got the chance to see this beautiful island.

Calaguas Island is big and a lot of activities can be done here. You can go mountain climbing, snorkeling island hopping, or just explore the island for your own pleasure. I wish I did as I'm thinking now that I missed a lot when we were there. But can you blame me - the water was really enticing and I can't help myself but give in to the temptation. I didn't even know that there's a cemetery near the beach! When I was there I only did two things - swim, eat and just sat there feeling the wind blowing on my face.

Although, when you go there I advised you to really do some exploring so you won't have regrets, like I do now. Try everything and anything to make your travel worth while. It's really a long travel going there by land so you have to grab that chance, unless otherwise, you want to go back there anytime soon.

I haven't gone back there yet so I don't know if it's still the same after 6 years. All I know is that it is now very popular and a lot of people go there now even though it's far. And with a lot travel agencies that offer a very competitive rates, it's easy to go there.

Dinner prepared/arranged by Travel Factor

And while there, make sure to wake up early and walk on the sand. The waves slightly kissing your feet really feels relaxing. And when you see the sun peeking slowly from the horizon, it's very calming. There are not much water activities in the island when we were there, simple things like walking on the beach or just look at the sunset really make a difference for me. I really appreciate nature and how beautiful it is.

Breakfast prepared/arranged by Travel Factor

Address: Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Philippines

Entrance Fee: P50 - P150

Please click here on how to get there.

Photo Credits: Anna Benitez